Backpack for discreet carrying and rapid deployment of a firearm or the like

ABSTRACT

A backpack for discreet transport and rapid deployment of a weapon or the like has an opening in the rear (torso-facing) surface through which a weapon (a pistol or the like) is accessible when the backpack, having been carried on one shoulder, is rotated forward; if the backpack is carried on the user&#39;s left shoulder, the user accesses the weapon with his/her right hand, and vice-versa, the backpack being manufactured for either a left-handed or a right-handed user, an alternative embodiment being usable by either. A feature on the outside of the backpack is grasped to facilitate rotating the backpack. A zipper, a hook-and-loop fastener, or both are used to close the opening. The weapon is also accessible from the main compartment of the backpack via an inner zippered opening. Closures are lockable to discourage unwanted access. Tactical advantage is preserved because the opening is not easily noticed and the movements for accessing the weapon can be done without looking and are not likely to be recognized as hostile.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to the field of luggage, bags and accessories for carrying personal items, more particularly to holsters and bags for carrying firearms, and especially to such where a firearm is to be carried inconspicuously and deployed reliably and rapidly.

2. General Background and State of the Art

Various previous backpacks exist for carrying personal articles. These can be adapted for carrying a concealed weapon, for example, by providing a compartment which is large enough to carry the weapon and which has a closure oriented to be opened easily by the user. The present invention relates generally to such items.

INVENTION SUMMARY

Objects of the present invention include providing improved speed and surprise in the deployment of a weapon concealed in a backpack.

In accordance with these objects and with others which will become apparent from the detailed description herein, a first exemplary embodiment of the inventive backpack adapted to enabling a user to carry and deploy a concealed handgun or the like comprises suspensory structure adapted for draping the backpack on one or both of the person's shoulders; a rear portion, operatively coupled to the suspensory structure, adapted for resting against the back of the user; a weapon-supporting interior surface adapted for supporting a handgun or the like; a closure formed in the rear portion, the closure being openable by the user while carrying the backpack on one shoulder to enable the person to retrieve the handgun or the like; and a feature adapted for rotating the backpack from a first orientation draped on one of the person's shoulders, to a second orientation wherein the person is able easily to operate the closure and with his/her contralateral hand to retrieve the handgun or the like.

A holster may be attached to the weapon-supporting interior surface to support, grasp or hold a handgun or the like.

A hook-and-loop fastener system may be used to attach the holster to the weapon-supporting interior surface.

The backpack may include a bottom portion and the feature adapted for rotating the backpack may include a thumb-engageable strap sewn across the bottom portion. For example, a strap may extend across the bottom portion, being sewn or riveted to the bottom portion proximate the front and rear of the backpack near one side thereof.

The feature adapted for rotating the backpack may include a tag; a tag carrying a knob; a tag carrying a ferrule; a tag having an eyelet; a cord; a knotted cord; a pouch; a pocket, an indentation, a hook, a ring, or a mesh.

The closure may including a zipper, a hook-and-loop fastener, or both.

The rear portion may include a flap which has a flap interior surface, the flap interior surface being accessible to the user when the closure is opened.

The flap may be adapted to support a handgun or the like.

The weapon-supporting interior surface may be accessible by the user's contralateral hand when the closure is opened.

The backpack may form a compartment adapted for carrying personal items, an interior opening being formed in the compartment, this interior opening permitting access to the weapon-supporting interior surface via the compartment.

The interior opening may be closable.

Also in accordance with the present invention, an exemplary embodiment of the backpack adapted to enabling a user to carry and deploy a concealed handgun or the like comprises suspensory structure adapted for draping the backpack on one or both of the person's shoulders; a rear portion, operatively coupled to the suspensory structure, adapted for resting against the back of the user; a weapon-supporting interior surface adapted for supporting a handgun or the like; a rear portion opening formed in the rear portion, the rear portion opening being openable by the user while carrying the backpack on one shoulder to enable the person to retrieve the handgun or the like; and a feature operatively coupled to the rear portion and adapted for rotating the backpack from a first orientation draped on one of the person's shoulders, to a second orientation wherein the person is able easily to operate the closure and with his/her contralateral hand to retrieve the handgun or the like.

A holster may be attached to the backpack interior surface.

The rear portion may include a flap, the flap having a flap interior surface, the flap interior surface being accessible to the user when the rear portion opening is opened and being being adapted to support a handgun or the like.

The feature for rotating the backpack may include a thumb-engageable strap sewn across a portion of the backpack.

The feature for rotating the backpack may include a tag; a tag carrying a knob; a tag carrying a ferrule; a tag having an eyelet; a cord; a knotted cord; a pouch; a pocket, an indentation, a hook, a ring, or a mesh.

Also in accordance with the present invention, an exemplary embodiment of the backpack adapted to enabling a user to carry and deploy a concealed handgun or the like is suspendable from a person's shoulder; is adapted to conceal a handgun; comprises a rear portion ordinarily facing the body of the person carrying the backpack; is adapted to enable the person carrying the backpack, using the hand ipsilateral to the shoulder carrying the backpack, to easily rotate the backpack to a position proximate the front of the person's torso; and is adapted to enable the person, having so rotated the backpack, to retrieve a handgun from the backpack using the contralateral hand.

The backpack may have a weapon-concealing portion which has a first configuration concealing the handgun and is manipulable, by the contralateral hand of the person carrying the backpack, to a second configuration exposing the handgun for retrieval by the contralateral hand.

In the backpack, the weapon-concealing portion may have a weapon-supporting interior surface adapted for supporting a handgun.

The backpack may be adapted to enable the person carrying the backpack, using the hand ipsilateral to the shoulder carrying the backpack, to easily rotate the backpack to a position proximate the front of the person's torso, by means of a feature chosen from among a tag; a tag carrying a knob; a tag carrying a ferrule; a tag having an eyelet; a cord; a knotted cord; a pouch; a pocket, an indentation, a hook, a ring, or a mesh.

A backpack is a ubiquitous personal luggage item, used by persons of all ages in many parts of the world. It typically has a main compartment for storing books, cameras, food, clothing, and the like, and optionally several smaller compartments for smaller items. The compartments usually are closed by zippers, although snaps, hook-and-loop fasteners and the like also are used. Carried on one or both of a person's shoulders by a suspensory structure such as shoulder straps, a backpack is a common sight and would not be regarded as remarkable. For customers in the fields of personal protection and special police and military operations, the inventor envisioned a backpack having ordinary appearance when carried in the aforementioned manner, yet adapted to conceal a firearm and to allow its user to deploy the firearm quickly. Having studied the tactics of handgun combat, the inventor aimed to meet multiple needs: (1) concealment of the weapon in an ordinary item not uniquely associated with the carrying of weapons; (2) rapid deployment of the weapon in an emergency such as a violent encounter; (3) the avoidance of behaviors which would suggest that a weapon is present or is about to be deployed, such as removing the backpack from one's shoulder, turning it around or placing it on the ground, and opening one of its compartments; (4) keeping the backpack on one's shoulder while deploying the weapon; (5) shielding at least a portion of the user's body from gunfire during a violent encounter; (6) protecting the weapon from discovery by persons casually examining the item in which it is carried; (7) permitting access to the weapon from an ordinary compartment of the item.

The backpack in accordance with the present invention enables its user to conceal a weapon in an inconspicuous backpack and carry the backpack on his/her person where it is subject to his/her control.

The inventive backpack enables its user to carry the backpack on both shoulders, centered over the user's back. If equipped with ballistic material, the backpack carried in this manner affords a measure of protection against attack from the rear.

When the user identifies a need for readiness, he/she can shift the inventive backpack to one shoulder without attracting attention. If the user encounters gunfire, he/she can draw the backpack across his/her chest or abdomen. More particularly, when carrying the inventive backpack on the left shoulder, the user can engage the thumb strap with his/her left thumb and hand (assuming a left-shouldered embodiment of the backpack), thereby gaining leverage and control over the backpack while its center of mass is located between the user's shoulder and hand. The user can raise the backpack high to shield his/her face, neck and upper chest, or not quite so high, shielding his/her lower chest and abdomen. In a forward crouching body position, the user can align most of his/her vital organs behind the backpack and downrange of a source of gunfire. This can be done with one hand and while maneuvering, because the thumb strap provides control of the backpack and the shoulder strap is rubberized to reduce the likelihood that it will slip off of the user's shoulder or require the user to reposition it on his/her shoulder. While the inventor found the thumb strap optimal, some of the utility of the thumb strap can be provided by alternative structure, such as a pouch in which one can insert a finger or thumb, a tag (possibly with a knob, ferrule or handle attached), or a cord (possibly with one or more knots which may be grasped).

When the user chooses to deploy the weapon from the inventive backpack, he/she engages the thumb strap with his/her left thumb and hand, moves the bottom portion of the backpack forward and upward, grasps the flap tab located on the rear portion of the backpack, and pulls the flap tab, thereby opening the flap and exposing the holstered weapon and ammunition clips. The user then retrieves the weapon with his/her right hand.

The inventive backpack enables the user to deploy the weapon with minimal opportunity for an adversary or bystander to notice the deployment and react to it. Because the hand that opens the flap does not have far to travel before it reaches the gun, there is little time for an adversary to observe the behavior and react to it. If the user draws the backpack across his/her torso before exposing the weapon, the backpack and the user's body can hide the weapon from view even after the user has drawn it from the holster.

The inventive backpack frees the user from preoccupation with the process or retrieving the weapon, enabling the user to devote undivided attention to the situation. Because the user controls the backpack while opening the flap, the user has no need to look where he/she is reaching and therefore may continuously observe the environment and may draw the weapon reliably in the dark. Because the weapon is holstered to the interior surface of the flap, it is nearly in hand as soon as the flap opens. Because the user knows the location of the weapon relative to the flap and flap tab and has practiced drawing the weapon from the holster, the user reaches the weapon accurately on the first attempt and is not delayed or distracted.

The user can control and fire the weapon with the right hand while using the left hand to control the backpack, optionally drawing the backpack into the line of incoming gunfire. Alternatively, the user can let go of the thumb strap and put both hands on the weapon.

For safety, it may be desired to secure the weapon, in order to reduce the likelihood that a child or a person whose curiosity is aroused would discover the weapon by casually inspecting the backpack. As long as the backpack material and closures are sturdy, the weapon can be secured within in the inventive backpack by padlocking the zipper pulls of the weapon compartment flap together (in the one-shouldered embodiment) or, in the ambidextrous embodiment which has two vertical lateral zippers and a central hook-and-loop fastener, to nearby flap tabs or thumb straps (perhaps with the aid of a short cable or chain). Alternatively, the flap tabs can be locked to the thumb straps. A person committed to accessing the backpack interior would need tools with which to defeat the lock or to cut, saw or rip the backpack.

In some situations, the user may prefer to stow or retrieve the weapon while accessing the main compartment of the backpack. This is done by opening the main compartment and opening a zipper or the like which permits access from the main compartment to the weapon compartment. Care must be exercised with regard to the orientation of the weapon if it is being manipulated. If the weapon was holstered for rapid deployment, its muzzle will be pointed toward the top of the backpack and off to one side, i.e., possibly toward the face of a person accessing the main compartment from above.

A holster and an ammunition clip pouch are also described. The holster and pouch are versatile, economical, lightweight, compact, and easily oriented at the correct angle when attached to the backpack by means of hook-and-loop fasteners. The holster and the pouches are adjustable to accommodate different sizes of weapons and clips. Clever use of hook-and-loop fasteners provides all these benefits in a product which is simple to construct from ordinary textiles such as nylon and polyester. When not in use, the holster and the pouch occupy little volume, conform easily to available space, and can be detached, opened, flattened out, and stored conveniently in a slim enclosure such as a sleeve, envelope or pocket.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a further understanding of the objects and advantages of the prt fornt suresent invention, reference should be had to the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawing, in which like parts are given like reference numbers and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of A FIRST EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT of the backpack in accordance with the present invention showing what herein is termed the “front” of the backpack, although the front portion as depicted would be facing rearward relative to a person who would be wearing the backpack;

FIG. 2 is a side elevational view thereof as seen from a point of view to the left side of a person who would be wearing the backpack;

FIG. 3 is a top plan view thereof;

FIG. 4 is a bottom plan view thereof;

FIGS. 5 and 6 are rear elevational views thereof from a rearward-looking viewpoint of a person who would be wearing the backpack, showing the first exemplary embodiment thereof with the weapon compartment in closed and wide-open configurations, respectively;

FIGS. 7 and 8 are top plan views thereof looking down into the opened backpack;

FIG. 9 is a cut-away rear view of the first embodiment of the inventive backpack as seen looking rearward from the perspective of one wearing the backpack, with intervening structure, including the rear portion, omitted from the view;

FIG. 10 is a cut-away front view of the first embodiment of the inventive backpack as seen looking forward from behind a person wearing the backpack, with intervening structure, including the front portion, omitted from the view;

FIG. 11 is a cut-away view from the perspective of FIG. 9 with intervening material, including the rear portion, omitted from the view;

FIG. 12 is a partially cut-away side view thereof as seen from the point of view of FIG. 2;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view thereof depicting the first exemplary embodiment of the backpack in accordance with the present invention being used, as seen from a point of view to the left of a person who would be wearing the backpack;

FIGS. 14 and 15 are perspective views thereof, as seen from a point of view in front of a person who would be wearing the backpack and about 45 degrees to that person's right;

FIG. 16 is a front elevational view of A SECOND EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT of the backpack in accordance with the present invention, looking forward from behind a person who would be wearing the backpack, showing primarily the front surface thereof;

FIG. 17 is a side elevational view thereof, as seen from a location to the right of a person who would be wearing the backpack;

FIG. 18 is a bottom plan view thereof;

FIGS. 19 and 20 are rear elevational views thereof, seen as if looking rearward from the point of view of a person who would be wearing the backpack, showing primarily the rear portion thereof with the weapon compartment in closed and wide-open configurations, respectively;

FIG. 21 is a cut-away rear view of the second embodiment of the inventive backpack as seen looking rearward from the perspective of one wearing the backpack, with intervening structure, including the rear portion, omitted from the view (same perspective as FIG. 9);

FIG. 22 is a cut-away front view of the second embodiment of the inventive backpack as seen looking forward from behind a person wearing the backpack, with intervening structure, including the front portion, omitted from the view;

FIG. 23 is a partially cut-away side view thereof as seen from a point of view to the left side of a person who would be wearing the backpack;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view thereof depicting the first exemplary embodiment of the backpack in accordance with the present invention being used, as seen from a point of view to the left of a person who would be wearing the backpack;

FIGS. 25 and 26 are perspective views thereof, as seen from a point of view in front of a person who would be wearing the backpack and about 45 degrees to that person's right;

FIG. 27 is a perspective view, taken rearward from the front, of a holster of the present invention laid open;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view, taken frontward from the rear, of a holster of the present invention laid open;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view, taken frontward from the rear, of a holster of the present invention laid open;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view, taken rearward from the front, of a holster of the present invention;

FIG. 31 is left side elevational view of an ammunition clip pouch strip and associated structures of the present invention;

FIG. 32 is a front elevational view thereof;

FIG. 33 is a rear elevational view thereof;

FIG. 34 is a top plan view thereof;

FIG. 35 is a rear elevational view of a pouch closure strip of the present invention isolated and flattened;

FIG. 36 is a front elevational view thereof;

FIG. 37 is a left side elevational view thereof;

FIG. 38 is a front elevational view thereof;

FIG. 39 is a rear elevational view thereof; and

FIG. 40 is a bottom plan view thereof.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

A preferred embodiment of the backpack for discreet transport and rapid deployment of a weapon or the like will now be described with reference to FIG. 1, which illustrates in front elevational view a preferred embodiment of the backpack for discreet carrying and rapid deployment of a firearm or the like in accordance with the present invention, shown generally at 20, the view illustrating what herein is termed the “front” of the backpack 20, although the parts depicted would be facing rearward relative to a person who would be wearing the backpack 20, having a front portion 22, a left side portion 24, a right side portion 26, a top portion 28 with a hand grip 30, a bottom portion 32, a convenience pocket zipper 34 with a convenience pocket zipper pull 36, a logo display 38, and structural/ornamental stitching 40. A thumb strap 42 is sewn onto the backpack 20 proximate the left side portion 24 and spans the bottom portion 32 from the front portion 22 to the rear portion (now shown in this view, 44 in subsequent figures). The thumb strap 42 has enough slack under foreseeable conditions to enable a person wearing the backpack 20 on his/her left shoulder to find the thumb strap 42 by feel and to insert his/her left thumb between the thumb strap 42 and the bottom portion 32, thereby gaining the ability to rotate the backpack 20 into a bottom-forward-facing orientation.

The backpack 20 is constructed using customary materials (leather and leather-like materials and heavy duty fabrics and thread of polyester and nylon) and methods (e.g., sewing, riveting). The thumb strap 42 is formed in like manner, its ends being stitched or riveted to the backpack 20.

FIG. 2, a side elevational view thereof as seen from a point of view to the left side of a person who would be wearing the backpack 20, shows the left side portion 24, the front portion 22, the top portion 28 with hand grip 30, bottom portion 32 with thumb strap 42, and the convenience pocket zipper 34 and convenience pocket zipper pull 36. Also shown is a rear portion 44 with shoulder straps, the left shoulder strap 46 being depicted prominently as being joined to the rear portion 44 of the backpack 20 proximate the top portion 28 and proximate the bottom portion 32 and being adjustable in length. Also shown is a main compartment zipper 48 which traverses the top portion 28 left to right, rearward of the hand grip 30, and is equipped with a first main compartment zipper pull 50 and a second main compartment zipper pull 52, which, being equipped with eyelets 54, can be secured one to another by a small padlock or the like to discourage unwanted access.

FIG. 3, a top plan view of the inventive backpack 20, shows the front portion 22 with convenience pocket zipper 34 and logo display 38, the left side portion 24, right side portion 26, top portion 28 with hand grip 30 and main compartment zipper 48, and the rear portion 44 with the left shoulder strap 46 and a right shoulder strap 56. Shown generally is structural/ornamental stitching 40, which in the customary fashion is structural or ornamental and often both.

FIG. 4, a bottom plan view of the inventive backpack 20, shows the bottom portion 32 with thumb strap 42, the left side portion 24, the right side portion 26, the front portion 22, and the rear portion 44 with the left shoulder strap 46 and the right shoulder strap 56.

FIG. 5, a rear elevational view of the inventive backpack 20, shows the left side portion 24, the right side portion 26, the bottom portion 32 with thumb strap 42, the top portion 28 with the hand grip 30, left shoulder strap 46 and right shoulder strap 56, and structural/ornamental stitching 40 including weapon compartment stitching 58. A rubber grip patch 106 is applied to the shoulder-contacting surface of the left shoulder strap 46. The weapon compartment stitching 58 defines a weapon compartment 60 sewn onto the rear portion 44 of the backpack 20, as is shown in other views. The rear portion 44 is shown having a weapon compartment zipper 62 which is equipped with a first weapon compartment zipper pull 64 and a second weapon compartment zipper pull 66. The weapon compartment zipper 62 traverses the rear portion 44 from proximate the bottom portion 32 and right side portion 26, laterally to proximate the bottom portion 32 and the left side portion 24, upward about half way to the top portion 28 and still proximate the left side portion 24, and then laterally to a location proximate the right side portion 26, defining a rectangular weapon compartment flap 68 as part of the rear portion 44. A flap tab 70 is joined to the weapon compartment flap 68 proximate the bottom portion 32 and the left side portion 24 and extends diagonally across the weapon compartment zipper 62 and toward the bottom portion 32 and the left side portion 24, lying generally flat on the rear portion 44. The flap tab 70 has a terminal eyelet 72. It should be appreciated that the first weapon compartment zipper pull 64 and the second weapon compartment zipper pull 66 may approach one another proximate the flap tab 70, but the teeth of the weapon compartment zipper 62 do not zip together between them.

The first weapon compartment zipper pull 64 is shown positioned immediately above and lateral of the flap tab 70. The second weapon compartment zipper pull 66 is shown positioned immediately below and central of the flap tab 70. So positioned, the first weapon compartment zipper pull 64 and the second weapon compartment zipper pull 66 close the weapon compartment flap 68 and, being equipped with eyelets 54, can be secured one to another with a small padlock or the like to discourage unwanted access.

FIG. 6, another rear elevational view of the inventive backpack 20, shows the view of FIG. 5 with the weapon compartment flap 68 in a wide-open configuration extending laterally past the right side portion 26 and with the first weapon compartment zipper pull 64 and the second weapon compartment zipper pull 66 both positioned proximate the right side portion 26. The weapon compartment flap 68 has a flap inside surface 74 to which are joined hook-and-loop fastener patches 76, to which is removably attached a holster 78 for carrying a pistol 80 or the like. Also shown is a weapon compartment wall surface 82 to which are joined hook-and-loop fastener patches 76, to which are removably attached magazine pouches 84 for carrying ammunition clips 86 or other items.

FIG. 7, a top plan view of the inventive backpack 20, shows the front portion 22, the left side portion 24, the right side portion 26, the rear portion 44 with the left shoulder strap 46 and the right shoulder strap 56, and the top portion 28 with the hand grip 30. The main compartment zipper 48 is shown opened with the first main compartment zipper pull 50 positioned at the right side portion 26 and the second main compartment zipper pull 52 positioned at the left side portion 24. Also shown is an inside surface 88 of the rear portion 44 of the backpack 20 and an inside surface 90 of the front portion 22 of the backpack 20. Also shown is a weapon compartment top portion 92 which is traversed laterally by a weapon compartment inside zipper 93. With continued reference to FIG. 7 and also with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, a weapon compartment 60 is defined by the weapon compartment top portion 92, a weapon compartment left side portion 94, a weapon compartment right side portion 96, a weapon compartment bottom portion 97 (not seen in this view), a weapon compartment front portion 77 (which is distinct from and unattached to the sleeve 102 and the inside surface 90 of the front portion 22 of the backpack 20), and a weapon compartment rear portion 91 (which is a portion of the rear portion 44 of the backpack 20 defined by the weapon compartment stitching 58). The weapon compartment stitching 58 joins the weapon compartment top portion 92, the weapon compartment left side portion 94, the weapon compartment right side portion 96, and the weapon compartment bottom portion 97 to the rear portion 44 of the backpack 20, thereby defining the weapon compartment rear portion 91 in the rear portion 44 of the backpack. The weapon compartment rear portion 91 includes the weapon compartment flap 68. The weapon compartment inside zipper 93 has a first weapon compartment inside zipper pull 99 and a second weapon compartment inside zipper pull 100, both equipped with eyelets (not shown in the view, see 54 in other views for the type of eyelet) so that they may be secured one to another with a small padlock or the like to discourage unwanted access. Also shown is a sleeve 102 formed by the inside surface 90 of the front portion 22 of the backpack 20. The sleeve 102 accommodates a panel of ballistic material (not shown) which may be inserted to provide a measure of protection from gunfire.

FIG. 8, a top plan view of the inventive backpack 20, shows the view of FIG. 7 with the weapon compartment inside zipper 93 opened and the first weapon compartment inside zipper pull 99 and the second weapon compartment inside zipper pull 100 positioned apart, allowing the weapon compartment top portion 92 to open. The weapon compartment zipper 62 is shown formed in the weapon compartment rear portion 91. Also shown is the weapon compartment rear portion 91 to which are sewn the hook-and-loop fastener patches 76 carrying the holster 78 and pistol 80. Also shown is the weapon compartment front portion 77 to which are sewn the hook-and-loop fastener patches 76 carrying the magazine pouches 84 with ammunition clips 86.

FIG. 9, a cut-away rear view of the first embodiment of the inventive backpack 20 as seen looking rearward from the perspective of one wearing the backpack, with intervening structure, including the rear portion, omitted from the view, revealing the inside surface 90 of the front portion 22 of the backpack 20 (this is also from the same viewpoint as that of FIG. 5, but with intervening structure omitted), shows the sleeve 102 formed in the inside surface 90 of the front portion 22. Also shown is the logo display 38. A panel of ballistic protective material, if supplied, may be inserted from above into the sleeve and lowered therein until it comes to rest against the bottom portion 32 of the backpack.

FIG. 10, a cut-away front view of the first embodiment of the inventive backpack 20 as seen looking forward from behind a person wearing the backpack, with intervening structure, including the front portion, omitted from the view, shows the weapon compartment top portion 92, weapon compartment left side portion 94, weapon compartment right side portion 96, and weapon compartment bottom portion 97, which define the weapon compartment rear portion 91, where the weapon compartment zipper 62 defines three sides of the weapon compartment flap 68, to which are sewn the hook-and-loop fastener patches 76 carrying the holster 78 and pistol 80. The first weapon compartment zipper pull 64 and the second weapon compartment zipper pull 66 are shown positioned relatively close together, substantially closing the weapon compartment flap 68 relative to the rear portion 44.

FIG. 11, a cut-away view from the perspective of FIG. 9 with intervening material, including the rear portion, omitted from the view, shows the weapon compartment front surface 104 (seen from a point of view opposite that of FIG. 10), the weapon compartment top portion 92, a weapon compartment left side portion 94, a weapon compartment right side portion 96, and the weapon compartment bottom portion 97. The weapon compartment front surface 104 includes (and may be identical with) the weapon compartment wall surface 82 to which are sewn the hook-and-loop fastener patches 76 carrying the magazine pouches 84 with ammunition clips 86. With reference to FIGS. 10 and 11, it should be appreciated that with these structures so positioned, the holster 78, pistol 80, magazine pouches 84 and ammunition clips 86 are located close together within the weapon compartment 60.

FIG. 12, a partially cut-away side view of the backpack 20 as viewed from a point to the left of a person who would be wearing the backpack 20, shows the inside surface 88 of the rear portion 44 of the backpack 20, including the weapon compartment rear portion 91 which includes the weapon compartment flap 168 to which are sewn the hook-and-loop fastener patches 76 carrying the holster 78 and pistol 80. Also shown is the weapon compartment front portion 77, to which are sewn the hook-and-loop fastener patches 76 carrying the magazine pouches 84 with ammunition clips 86. Additionally, an extra magazine is shown mounted within the backpack 20 and accessible via the convenience pocket zipper 34. Also shown are the weapon compartment zipper 62, the weapon compartment zipper pull 64, the flap tab 70 with eyelet 72, the top portion 28, front portion 22, bottom portion 32, thumb strap 42, left shoulder strap 46 with rubberized coating 106, main compartment zipper 48, convenience zipper 34 and hand grip 30.

FIG. 13, a perspective view depicting the backpack 20 in accordance with the present invention being used, as seen from a point of view to the left of a person who would be wearing the backpack 20, shows the front portion 22 with logo display 38 and convenience pocket zipper 34, the top portion 28 with hand grip 30, the left side portion 24, the right side portion 26, and the bottom portion 32 with the thumb strap 42. The left shoulder strap 46 is shown draped over a user's left shoulder. A rubber grip patch 106, not seen in this view, is applied to the shoulder-contacting surface of the left shoulder strap 46. The user is shown having inserted his left thumb between the thumb strap 42 and the bottom portion 32 of the backpack 20. It will be appreciated that by doing so, the user gains a measure of control over the orientation of the backpack 20.

FIG. 14, a perspective view, as seen from a point of view in front of a person who would be wearing the backpack 20 and about 45 degrees to that person's right, shows the left shoulder strap 46, the left side portion 24, the right side portion 26, the bottom portion 32 with the thumb strap 42, and the rear portion 44 with the weapon compartment stitching 58, the weapon compartment zipper 62, the first weapon compartment zipper pull 64, the second weapon compartment zipper pull 66, and the flap tab 70. It will be appreciated that the user has rotated the backpack 20 toward a bottom-forward orientation.

FIG. 15, another perspective view from the viewpoint of FIG. 14, shows the weapon compartment flap 68 opened sufficiently to permit access to the pistol 80. It will be appreciated that the user has used his right hand to pull the flap tab 70 and open the weapon compartment flap 68. The user may hook a fingertip through the terminal eyelet 72 of the flap tab 70 in order to have a better grip. Having rotated the backpack and opened the weapon compartment flap 168, the user may use his/her right hand to retrieve the pistol 80 from the holster 78. Having deployed the pistol 80, the user may with the left hand retain his/her grasp of the flap tab 70, drawing the backpack at least partially across the front of his/her torso, so that the backpack provides a measure of protection from gunfire. This protection can be increased if a ballistic panel is inserted within the backpack (FIGS. 7-9 and 21, reference number 102).

FIG. 16, a front elevational view of A SECOND EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT of the backpack in accordance with the present invention from the same viewpoint as FIG. 1, looking forward from behind a person who would be wearing the backpack, facing the front portion 22 of the backpack, shows the second exemplary embodiment of the inventive backpack with the weapon compartment in closed configuration, the left side portion 24, the right side portion 26, the bottom portion 32 with a left thumb strap 142 and a right thumb strap 143, the top portion 28 with the hand grip 30; the left shoulder strap 46, the right shoulder strap 56, and the structural/ornamental stitching 40. A left thumb strap 142 and a right thumb strap 143 are sewn onto the backpack 20 proximate the left side portion 24 and span the bottom portion 32 from the front portion 22 to the rear portion (now shown in this view, 44 in subsequent figures). The left thumb strap 142 has enough slack under foreseeable conditions to enable a person wearing the backpack 20 on his/her left shoulder to find the thumb strap 142 by feel and to insert his/her left thumb between the thumb strap 142 and the bottom portion 32, thereby gaining the ability to rotate the backpack 20 into a bottom-forward-facing orientation. Were the user wearing the backpack on the right shoulder, the user would use his/her right thumb on the right thumb strap 143 to accomplish the same. Thus, as will be shown and described in further detail, this second embodiment of the inventive backpack is operable in the inventive manner from either shoulder.

FIG. 17, a side elevational view thereof as seen from a point of view to the right side of a person who would be wearing the backpack 20 (i.e., opposite the perspective of FIG. 2), shows the left side portion 24, the front portion 22, the top portion 28 with hand grip 30, bottom portion 32 with right thumb strap 143, and the convenience pocket zipper 34. Also shown is a rear portion 44 with shoulder straps, the right shoulder strap 56 being depicted prominently as being joined to the rear portion 44 of the backpack 20 proximate the top portion 28 and proximate the bottom portion 32 and being adjustable in length. Also shown is a main compartment zipper 48 which traverses the top portion 28 left to right, rearward of the hand grip 30. The zipper pulls (seen in the first embodiment) are not shown in this view, being on the opposite side.

FIG. 18, a bottom plan view of the inventive backpack 20, shows the bottom portion 32 with left thumb strap 142 and right thumb strap 143, the left side portion 24, the right side portion 26, the front portion 22, and the rear portion 44 with the left shoulder strap 46 and the right shoulder strap 56.

FIG. 19, a rear elevational view of the inventive backpack 20, shows the left side portion 24, the right side portion 26, the bottom portion 32 with left thumb strap 142 and right thumb strap 143, the top portion 28 with the hand grip 30, left shoulder strap 46 and right shoulder strap 56, structural/ornamental stitching 40 including weapon compartment stitching 58, and rubber grip patch 106. The weapon compartment stitching 58 defines a weapon compartment 60 sewn onto the rear portion 44 of the backpack 20, as is shown in other views. The rear portion 44 is shown having a vertically oriented first weapon compartment zipper 161, which is equipped with a first weapon compartment zipper pull 167, a vertically oriented second weapon compartment zipper 163 equipped with a second weapon compartment zipper pull 169, and a horizontally oriented hook-and-loop fastener 165. The first weapon compartment zipper 161, second weapon compartment zipper 163 and fastener strip 165 define a rectangular weapon compartment flap 159 as part of the rear portion 44. Flap tabs 170 are joined to the weapon compartment flap 159 proximate the fastener strip 165 and the first weapon compartment zipper 161 and second weapon compartment zipper 163, respectively and extend diagonally from the weapon compartment flap, lying generally flat on the rear portion 44. The flap tabs 170 have terminal eyelets 72.

A first weapon compartment zipper pull 167 is shown positioned uppermost on the first weapon compartment zipper 161. A second weapon compartment zipper pull 169 is shown positioned uppermost on the second weapon compartment zipper 163. With the first weapon compartment zipper pull 167 and the second weapon compartment zipper pull 169 positioned close to the bottom portion 32 of the backpack, those structures and the hook-and-loop fastener strip 165 cooperate to close the weapon compartment flap 159.

FIG. 20, another rear elevational view of the second embodiment of the inventive backpack 20, shows the view of FIG. 19 with the weapon compartment flap 159 in a wide-open configuration extending vertically toward the top portion 28 and with the first weapon compartment zipper 161 and second weapon compartment zipper 163 opened. The weapon compartment flap 159 has a flap inside surface 174 to which are joined hook-and-loop fastener patches 76, to which is removably attached a holster 78 for carrying a pistol 80 or the like. Also shown is a weapon compartment wall surface 82 to which are joined hook-and-loop fastener patches 76, to which are removably attached magazine pouches 84 for carrying ammunition clips 86 or other items. A rubber grip patch 106 is applied to the shoulder-contacting surface of the left shoulder strap 46 and the right shoulder strap 56. Also shown are the flap tabs 170 (one might be more convenient for a left-shoulder-carrying, right-handed user; the other, for a right-should-carrying, left-handed user; it is expected that the user will pull the uppermost of the two tabs), the hook-and-loop fastener 165 (preferably with the fuzzy portion located on the rear portion 44 and the hook portion located on the weapon compartment flap).

For a top elevational view of this second exemplary embodiment of the inventive backpack as seen looking down into the backpack when the main compartment zipper 48 is open, the reader is referred to the equivalent structure in the first exemplary embodiment, FIGS. 7 and 8.

FIG. 21, a cut-away view of the inside surface 90 of the front portion 22 of the backpack 20 as seen from the point of view of FIG. 5 with intervening structure omitted from the drawing figure, shows the sleeve 102 formed in the inside surface 90 of the front portion 22. Also shown is the logo display 38. A panel of ballistic protective material, if supplied, may be inserted from above into the sleeve and lowered therein until it comes to rest against the bottom portion 32 of the backpack.

FIG. 22, a cut-away view of the inside surface 88 of the rear portion 44 of the backpack 20 as viewed from the front with intervening structure omitted, shows the weapon compartment top portion 92, weapon compartment left side portion 94, weapon compartment right side portion 96, and weapon compartment bottom portion 97, which define the weapon compartment rear portion 91, where the first weapon compartment zipper 162, the hook-and-loop fastener 165, and the second weapon compartment zipper 163 define three sides of the weapon compartment flap 159, to which are sewn the hook-and-loop fastener patches 76 carrying the holster 78 and pistol 80. The first weapon compartment zipper pull 167 and the second weapon compartment zipper pull 169 are shown positioned close to the bottom portion 32 of the backpack 20, substantially closing the weapon compartment flap 159 relative to the rear portion 44.

FIG. 23, a partially cut-away side view of the backpack 20 as viewed from a point to the left of a person who would be wearing the backpack 20, shows the rear portion 44 of the backpack 20, which has an inside surface 88 and which includes including the weapon compartment rear portion 91, which, in turn, includes the weapon compartment flap 159, to which are sewn the hook-and-loop fastener patches 76 carrying the holster 78 and pistol 80. Also shown is the weapon compartment front portion 77, to which are sewn the hook-and-loop fastener patches 76 carrying the magazine pouches 84 with ammunition clips 86. Additionally, an extra magazine is shown mounted within the backpack 20 and accessible via the convenience pocket zipper 34. Structure to be noted includes the weapon compartment flap 159, which is defined in the rear portion 44 of the backpack 20; the fastener patches 76 located both on the weapon compartment flap 159 and on the weapon compartment front portion 77; the weapon compartment inside zipper 93; the first weapon compartment inside zipper pull 99 or the second weapon compartment inside zipper pull 100, assuming such would happen to be positioned in the section of detail. The hook-and-loop fasteners 165 are shown fastened together, cooperating with the first weapon compartment zipper and the second weapon compartment zipper (not visible in this view) to close the weapon compartment flap 159.

FIG. 24, a perspective view depicting the backpack 20 in accordance with the present invention being used, as seen from a point of view to the left of a person who would be wearing the backpack 20, shows the front portion 22 with logo display 38 and convenience pocket zipper 34, the top portion 28 with hand grip 30, the left side portion 24, the right side portion 26, and the bottom portion 32 with the left thumb strap 142 and right thumb strap 143. The left shoulder strap 46 is shown draped over a user's left shoulder. It should be understood that while a backpack has two shoulder straps, it is common to see a person carrying a backpack on one shoulder, especially when traveling a short distance. A rubber grip patch 106 is applied to the shoulder-contacting surface of the left shoulder strap 46. The user is shown having inserted his/her left thumb between the left thumb strap 142 and the bottom portion 32 of the backpack 20. It will be appreciated that by doing so, the user gains a measure of control over the orientation of the backpack 20.

FIG. 25, a perspective view, as seen from a point of view in front of a person who would be wearing the backpack 20 and about 45 degrees to that person's right, shows the left shoulder strap 46, the left side portion 24, the right side portion 26, the bottom portion 32 with the left thumb strap 142 and right thumb strap 143, and the rear portion 44 with the weapon compartment stitching 58, the first weapon compartment zipper 161, second weapon compartment zipper 163, the first weapon compartment zipper pull 167, the second weapon compartment zipper pull 169, and the flap tabs 170. It will be appreciated that the user, having manually engaged the thumb strap 142, has rotated the backpack 20 toward a bottom-forward orientation. When the user does so, the rubber grip patch 106 on the shoulder-contacting surface of the left shoulder strap 46 engages the user's skin or clothing, thereby reducing the likelihood that the left shoulder strap 46 will slip off of the user's shoulder.

FIG. 26, another perspective view from the viewpoint of FIG. 14, shows the weapon compartment flap 159 opened sufficiently to permit access to the pistol 80. It will be appreciated that the user has used his/her right hand to pull the uppermost of the two flap tabs 170. The hook-and-loop fastener 165 has parted and the second weapon compartment zipper pull 169 has moved upward, allowing the second weapon compartment zipper 163 to part so that the weapon compartment flap 159 is partially opened. The user may hook a fingertip through the terminal eyelet 72 of the flap tab 170 in order to have a better grip. Having rotated the backpack and opened the weapon compartment flap 159, the user may let go of the tab 170 and use his/her right hand to retrieve the pistol 80 from the holster 78. Having deployed the pistol 80, the user may with the left hand keep control of the left thumb strap 142 and draw the backpack at least partially across the front of his/her torso, so that the backpack provides a measure of protection from gunfire. This protection can be increased by inserting a ballistic panel in the backpack (FIGS. 7-9 and 21, reference number 102).

A left-handed user may prefer to wear the backpack over the right shoulder, engage the right thumb strap 143 with his/her right thumb to rotate the backpack to a bottom-forward orientation, and open the weapon compartment flap 159 and draw the pistol with his/her left hand.

With reference to FIGS. 12 and 23, although different embodiments are depicted, the support and arrangement of the fastener patches 76, holster 78, magazine pouches 84 and ammunition clips 86 is nearly identical. A difference between the first and second exemplary embodiments of the inventive backpack is that whereas the first embodiment is designed specifically for a right-handed user who will carry the backpack on his/her left shoulder (or, made in mirror image, for a user having the opposite preference), the second embodiment is designed for left- and right-handed users, it being the user's task to plan ahead when mounting the holster 78 on the fastener patches 76 and loading the pistol 80 into the holster 78. Specifically, the user should orient the holster 78 and pistol 80 for optimal retrieval of the pistol 80, based on the hand the user intends to retrieve the pistol with. If the pistol is improperly oriented, the user may waste time or be distracted. If the pistol is improperly oriented or insecurely holstered, there is a chance that the pistol could shift in the holster or fall out of the holster when the weapon compartment flap (168 or 159) is opened.

With reference to the drawing figures generally, the backpack is constructed of CORDURA® brand 1000 polyester, nylon or other durable, flexible fabric sewn together or, should it be desired, leather or the like or an artificial non-woven material. It is common practice to reinforce the seams and the attachments of straps, zippers and the like. The weapon compartment flap (168 or 159) and the weapon compartment front portion 77, as well as other weapon compartment portions, may be stiffened, padded, or both, as may be desired, by the incorporation or insertion of sheet or foam material. A ballistic panel, where called for, may incorporate, for example, aramid, ultra high molecular weight polyethylene, epoxy, carbon fiber, glass fiber, metalloceramic, or metallic materials. Zippers are size #8 or size #10 and may be obtained, for example, from YKK Group of Japan or other suitable source. Where slides or buckles are to be incorporated into shoulder straps, they can be sizes in the range #20, #25, #38, and #50. A typical shoulder strap has a width of about 5 cm and may be padded.

With reference to the figures showing a pistol, it should be noted that pistols are of many sizes and shapes, some small and smooth, others large and having accessories or other protrusions. For smooth operation, the weapon compartment and the weapon compartment flap (168 or 159) should be large enough to permit storage of the pistol and any accompanying ammunition clips as well as easy withdrawal of the pistol in an emergency.

The disclosure of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/275,395, filed 24 Sep. 2016 is incorporated herein by reference for its teaching of the structure, function, operation and construction of the fastener patches 76, holster 78 and magazine pouches 84.

FIGS. 27-30 pertain to the holster 248. With reference to FIG. 27, a front elevational view of the holster 248, holster band 290 has a distal holster band loop material patch 308 and is sewn at a substantially right angle to a holster strip 292. With reference to FIG. 28, a rear elevational view of the holster 248, the holster band 290 also has a distal holster band hook material patch 306. The holster strip 292 has a holster strip hook material patch 302. With reference to FIG. 29, a perspective view from the rear of the holster 248, the holster band 290 is shown wrapped around the front of the holster strip 292, the holster band loop material patch 308 (not drawn in this figure) facing forward, ready to engage the holster strip hook material patch 302. The holster band hook material patch 306 faces rearward, ready to engage a loop material patch located on the backpack. With reference again to FIG. 28, the holster strip hook material patch 302 also faces rearward, ready to engage a loop material patch on the backpack. With reference to FIG. 30, a perspective view from the rear of the holster 248, the holster band 290 is shown wrapped around the front of the holster strip 292.

FIGS. 31-40 pertain to the ammunition clip pouch strip 294 and pouch closure strip 296, here described in a local frame of reference with “rearward” meaning facing toward whatever surface the clip pouch strip 294 is to be attached to and “frontward” meaning the direction in which the pouch closure strip 296 is operable. With reference to FIG. 31, a left side elevational view looking from the right in this local frame of reference, the clip pouch strip 294 has a rearward-facing clip pouch strip hook material patch 318 and a frontward-facing clip pouch 312 having a pouch lip 310 and a frontward-located, frontward-facing clip pouch loop material patch 299. The pouch closure strip 296 has a frontward-facing closure strip loop material patch 316, which is shown proximate the clip pouch strip hook material patch 318 ready for engagement therewith. The pouch closure strip 296 is shown brought up, over the pouch lip 310, and down frontward of the clip pouch 312 and has a closing hook material patch 298 facing rearward engaged with the clip pouch loop material patch 299. The pouch closure strip 296 also has a rearward-facing closure strip hook material patch 320 which, along with the rearward-facing clip pouch strip hook material patch 318, is ready to engage a loop material patch located on the backpack. FIG. 32, a front elevational view, shows pouch closure strip 296 passing over the pouch lip 310 and in front of the clip pouch 312 with the closing hook material patch 298 and the clip pouch loop material patch 299 both drawn in dotted lines to indicate their occlusion by the pouch closure strip 296. FIG. 33, a rear elevational view, shows the clip pouch strip 294, clip pouch strip hook material patch 318. The pouch closure strip 296 is shown with closure strip hook material patch 320. FIG. 34, a top plan view, shows the clip pouch strip 294 with the pouch lip 310. Also shown is the pouch closure strip 296 with closure strip hook material patch 320.

FIG. 35, a rear elevational view of the pouch closure strip 296 isolated in a flattened configuration, shows the closure strip hook material patch 320 and the closing hook material patch 298. FIG. 21, a front elevational view of the pouch closure strip 296 isolated in a flattened configuration, shows the closure strip loop material patch 316 and the closing hook material patch 298. FIG. 22, a left side elevational view of the clip pouch strip 294, shows the clip pouch strip hook material patch 318, the clip pouch 312, the pouch lip 310, and the clip pouch loop material patch 299. FIG. 38, a front elevational view, shows the clip pouch strip 294, the clip pouch 312, the pouch lip 310, and the clip pouch loop material patch 299. FIG. 39, a rear elevational view of the clip pouch strip 294, show the clip pouch strip hook material patch 318. FIG. 40, a bottom plan view, shows the clip pouch strip 294, clip pouch strip hook material patch 318, lip pouch 312, and the clip pouch loop material patch 299.

As can be seen from the drawing figures and from the description, each embodiment of the apparatus for carrying in accordance with the present invention solves a problem by addressing the need for discreet concealed transport and reliable rapid deployment of a weapon from a backpack.

While the specification describes particular embodiments of the present invention, those of ordinary skill can devise variations of the present invention without departing from the inventive concept.

Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that any arrangement calculated to achieve same purposes can be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all adaptations or variations of various embodiments of the invention. It is to be understood that the above description has been made in an illustrative fashion, and not a restrictive one. Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of various embodiments of the invention includes any other applications in which the above structures and methods are used. Therefore, the scope of various embodiments of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full range of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

In the foregoing description, if various features are grouped together in a single embodiment for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure, this method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments of the invention require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed embodiment. Thus the following claims, and such other claims as may later be added, are hereby incorporated into the description of the embodiments of the invention, with each claim standing on its own as a separate preferred embodiment. 

1. A backpack adapted to enabling a user to carry and deploy a concealed handgun or the like, comprising: suspensory structure adapted for draping the backpack on one or both of the person's shoulders; a rear portion, operatively coupled to said suspensory structure, adapted for resting against the back of the user; a backpack interior surface adapted for supporting a handgun or the like; a closure formed in said rear portion, said closure being openable by the user while carrying the backpack on one shoulder to enable the person to retrieve the handgun or the like; and a feature adapted for rotating the backpack from a first orientation draped on one of the person's shoulders, to a second orientation wherein the person is able easily to operate said closure and with his/her contralateral hand to retrieve said handgun or the like.
 2. The backpack of claim 1, a holster being attached to said backpack interior surface.
 3. The backpack of claim 2, a hook-and-loop fastener attaching said holster to said backpack interior surface.
 4. The backpack of claim 1, further comprising a bottom portion, said feature including a thumb-engageable strap sewn across said bottom portion.
 5. The backpack of claim 1, said closure including a zipper.
 6. The backpack of claim 5, said rear portion including a flap, said flap having a flap interior surface, said flap interior surface being accessible to the user when said closure is opened.
 7. The backpack of claim 6, said flap being adapted to support a handgun or the like.
 8. The backpack of claim 1, said weapon-supporting interior surface being accessible by the user's contralateral hand when said closure is opened.
 9. The backpack of claim 1, forming a compartment adapted for carrying personal items, an interior opening being formed in said compartment, said interior opening permitting access to the weapon-supporting interior surface via said compartment.
 10. The backpack of claim 1, said interior opening being closable.
 11. A backpack adapted to enabling a user to carry and deploy a concealed handgun or the like, comprising: suspensory structure adapted for draping the backpack on one or both of the person's shoulders; a rear portion, operatively coupled to said suspensory structure, adapted for resting against the back of the user; a weapon-supporting interior surface adapted for supporting a handgun or the like; a rear portion opening formed in said rear portion, said rear portion opening being openable by the user while carrying the backpack on one shoulder to enable the person to retrieve the handgun or the like; and a feature operatively coupled to said rear portion and adapted for rotating the backpack from a first orientation draped on one of the person's shoulders, to a second orientation wherein the person is able easily to operate said closure and with his/her contralateral hand to retrieve said handgun or the like.
 12. The backpack of claim 10, a holster being attached to said backpack interior surface.
 13. The backpack of claim 10, said rear portion including a flap, said flap having a flap interior surface, said flap interior surface being accessible to the user when said rear portion opening is opened and being being adapted to support a handgun or the like.
 14. The backpack of claim 11, said feature including a thumb-engageable strap sewn across a portion of the backpack.
 15. A backpack adapted to enabling a user to carry and deploy a concealed handgun or the like, the backpack being suspendable from a person's shoulder, the backpack being adapted to conceal a handgun, the backpack comprising a rear portion ordinarily facing the body of the person carrying the backpack, the backpack being adapted to enable the person carrying the backpack, using the hand ipsilateral to the shoulder carrying the backpack, to easily rotate the backpack to a position proximate the front of the person's torso, the backpack being adapted to enable the person, having so rotated the backpack, to retrieve a handgun from the backpack using the contralateral hand.
 16. The backpack of claim 15, further comprising: a weapon-concealing portion which has a first configuration concealing the handgun and is manipulable, by the contralateral hand of the person carrying the backpack, to a second configuration exposing the handgun for retrieval by the contralateral hand.
 17. The backpack of claim 16, wherein said weapon-concealing portion has a weapon-supporting interior surface adapted for supporting a handgun.
 18. The backpack of claim 1, said feature including (Markush group): a tag; a tag carrying a knob; a tag carrying a ferrule; a tag having an eyelet; a cord; a knotted cord; a pouch; a pocket, an indentation, a hook, a ring, or a mesh.
 19. The backpack of claim 11, said feature including (Markush group): a tag; a tag carrying a knob; a tag carrying a ferrule; a tag having an eyelet; a cord; a knotted cord; a pouch; a pocket, an indentation, a hook, a ring, or a mesh.
 20. The backpack of claim 11, the backpack being adapted to enable the person carrying the backpack, using the hand ipsilateral to the shoulder carrying the backpack, to easily rotate the backpack to a position proximate the front of the person's torso, by means of a feature chosen from among (Markush group): a tag; a tag carrying a knob; a tag carrying a ferrule; a tag having an eyelet; a cord; a knotted cord; a pouch; a pocket, an indentation, a hook, a ring, or a mesh. 